2009 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 610 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Nissan 350Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2007 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
